Governor signs bill creating Utah Outdoor Recreation Office

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SALT LAKE CITY -- Gov. Gary Herbert has signed a bill creating a state office dedicated to outdoor recreation.

The proposal is part of Herbert's broad vision for outdoor recreation in the state, which he unveiled in January.

The duties of the Outdoor Recreation Office would include setting the state's outdoors policy and improving recreation activities. The office would also be tasked with promoting Utah's outdoor opportunities and attracting the outdoors industry to the state.

Sales of outdoor products and sporting goods bring $5.8 billion to Utah's economy every year and $60 million in state and local sales taxes.

The governor's office announced Herbert's approval of the bill on Friday.